Things to do on a rainy day at Barend
We know that Scotland’s weather can be temperamental at times so if you get caught up with a rainy day then we have compiled a list of things you could do during your stay, to give you some ideas!
1. Gem Rock Museum – Creetown, 37 miles from Barend
A fun and informative day out for the whole family, there is lots to do and see here – from gemstones to crystals, minerals and fossils! You can visit the crystal cave, explore the interactive displays and take part in the geology quiz. There is also a Heritage Centre, playpark, shop, tearoom and walks, but don’t worry if you can’t fit it all into one day – tickets are valid for 2 weeks!
2. Ernespie Farm – Castle Douglas, 12 miles from Barend
Ernespie Farm is a brand new farm park that has just opened in the area and wow, has it been popular. Aside from their outdoor activities such as animal feeding and bouncy cushions, there are plenty non “weather permitted” activities available too, like animal petting and a two level soft play area with slides and ball pools. Check their facebook for up-to-date information.
3. Mossyard Farm Pottery – Gatehouse of Fleet, 31 miles from Barend
Open all year round, choose a piece of blank pottery from their large selection and paint and decorate it as you please, with a variety of stamps, sponges and more… A very personalised “souvenir” to take home with you! Booking in advance is essential and more information is available on their website.
4. Swimming Pool – Onsite
It would be difficult to write this post without mentioning our brilliant newly renovated onsite swimming pool which is open between 9am and 8pm daily (10am on a Sunday). I mean if you’re already damp, you may as well see it out, right? Or if you’ve got kids, a partner or friends who are keen swimmers but you’d rather not join in, then sit back and relax in the viewing area with a hot drink from our machine whilst they splash about!
5. The Devil’s Porridge Museum – Eastriggs, 40 miles from Barend
Discover the story of the greatest munitions factory on earth – HM Factory Gretna. During WW1 this factory made more explosives than all other munitions factories in the UK combined, had 30,000 workers and was over 9 miles long! This factory’s fascinating history is brought to life with artefacts, film and audio, photographs and more.
6. Robert Burns Centre & Film Theatre – Dumfries, 18 miles from Barend
Located in the centre of Dumfries, this small museum offers free entry and will tell you the story of Burns’ time in the town. You can also view many items belonging to The Bard including original manuscripts. Additionally there is a cafe and gift shop, as well as the centre turning into a film theatre at night where you can catch the newest released films if you book in advance!
7. Cocoa Bean Factory – Twynholm, 21 miles from Barend
A family run chocolate factory with indoor and outdoor play areas and interactive chocolate making workshops (for ages 2-18). The adults can indulge their sweet tooth in the cafe and browse the 100+ different kinds of loose chocolates the factory produces.There are also special adult chocolate truffle making workshops available for groups of 20 or more by appointment only, suitable for birthday and hen parties etc.
8. Annandale Distillery – Annan, 37 miles from Barend
This single malt Scotch whisky distillery was restored in 2014 after a 100 year long break from production and is now back to its former glory. Although the new batch of whisky has yet to mature enough to taste, you can still enjoy a choice of 3 tours (ranging from 45 minute to 2 hours in length) of the distillery or simply pay a visit to the fully licensed cafe, where dogs are welcome.
